The bill aims to enhance access and affordability for health insurance exchange customers in Washington State by amending existing laws and introducing new certification criteria for health plans. It recognizes the importance of health care access and the challenges posed by rising costs and market volatility. The Washington health benefit exchange board will be authorized to incorporate additional criteria into the health plan certification process, specifically addressing access and affordability issues that affect residents purchasing insurance through the exchange. This includes a requirement for the board to consider various market factors, such as cost-sharing, covered benefits, and provider networks, when certifying health plans.

Key amendments to RCW 43.71.065 include the addition of market factor criteria that the board must evaluate to ensure health plans meet access and affordability standards. The bill also establishes a new section that mandates the exchange to review market conditions annually and adopt relevant certification criteria for the upcoming plan year. Furthermore, it ensures that any information submitted by carriers for certification purposes remains confidential and exempt from public disclosure. The bill is declared an emergency measure, taking effect immediately to support the public's health and safety.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 43.71.065